Large Utility Automates Underground System for Reliability

This case study details the automation initiative undertaken by Ameren Missouri to enhance the reliability of its underground electrical system. Faced with challenges such as aging manual switchgear and extended outages, the utility opted to replace a significant portion of its infrastructure with automated solutions from S&C Electric Company. The project involved the deployment of Remote Supervisory PME Pad-Mounted Switchgear and the IntelliTeam II Automatic Restoration System, which together improved the system's resilience and reduced restoration times during outages. The integration of private LTE connectivity facilitated effective communication across the automated system. Following the implementation, Ameren Missouri reported a 15–25% reduction in customer minutes of interruption during inclement weather and a 70% improvement in System Average Interruption Duration Index (SAIDI). The case study illustrates the successful transition to automation and the positive impact on service reliability and operational efficiency.